$650m windfarm in Dundonnell set to create 300 construction jobs

The Victorian Government has given the green light for a new $650 million windfarm near Dundonnell in South West Victoria. With 96 turbines, it's the state's largest windfarm project.

The proponent, Dundonnell Wind Farm Pty Ltd (a subsidiary of TrustPower Holdings Pty Ltd) will construct and operate the wind farm and associated infrastructure, including a powerline corridor and site access road.

With construction due to begin in 2017, the project is expected to open 300 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase, and at least 16 positions when the farm is fully operational.

A thorough Environment Effects Statement (EES) process led to the permit approval of the project where the EES has recommended some conditions that will minimise the potential impact on wildlife. This resulted to a reduced number of turbines – originally it was up to 104 turbines – and buffer zones around wetland areas.

"At 96 turbines, the size and scale of it... this is why it's such a proud day," said Minister for Planning, Richard Wynne.

“Windfarms are expected to attract $35 billion worth of investment nationally by 2020, which is great for jobs, the environment and protecting our way of life.”

About the Dundonnell windfarm

The windfarm will generate 1,000 GwH of clean energy per year – which is enough to power at least 140,000 residences. It will also save an estimated 700,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year which will help VIC to deal better with the challenges inflicted by climate change.